Mera, Ecuador
The World Wildlife Fund has called the area from Baños to Mera, situated where the Andes meet the Amazon, “A Gift to the Earth” because of its beauty and biological importance to the region. Mera is situated in the Pastaza River Valley between the national parks of Sangay and Llanganates, and provides an important biological corridor linking the two protected areas. Mera itself is a small and friendly jungle village nestled amid mountains, rivers, and rainforest. Sharing a beer with a friendly villager can be as charming as the abundant nature. Surrounding Mera there are caves to explore, rivers to swim in, beautiful walks to be taken, and great places to string up a hammock and enjoy.